Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to the field of herbal formulations and nutraceuticals, specifically to the development of a therapeutic herbal tea made exclusively from Costus speciosus leaves. It particularly focuses on phytochemical validation of the formulation using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS).
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
References which are cited in the present disclosure are not necessarily prior art and therefore their citation does not constitute an admission that such references are prior art in any jurisdiction. All publications, patents and patent applications herein are incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.
Costus speciosus has long been integrated in plant-based or traditional medicine and recognized for its many therapeutic benefits. Current consumer commercial opportunities are limited mostly on the rhizome applications, while the leaf is discarded or not utilized to the extent possible which represents a plant part that could be used sustainably with bioactive compounds. Existing herbal properties involving C. speciosus are delivered to consumers as powders, capsules, and as multi-herb decoctions, which have significant limitations including:
Bitterness and poor taste.
No standardized preparation.
No scientific validation with phytochemical profiling.
Low translating consumer behaviour to adoption or dosage consumption.
This creates a significant gap for a validated mono-herbal product based on Costus speciosus leaves, that offers a simple to use, palatable delivery method.
The present invention relates to the fields of herbal pharmacognosy, nutraceutical beverages, and functional food technology. More particularly, it concerns a novel mono-herbal tea formulation made exclusively from the leaves of Costus speciosus (family: Costaceae), offering a caffeine-free, phytochemically rich, and palatable alternative to existing rhizome-based products, with bioactive compounds validated by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS).
Several patents issued for bevarages or Costus speciosus but none of these are related to the present invention. Patent US20230043427A1 relates to an infusion product for making a beverage, more specifically to a plant-based composition for making a beverage, and to a herbal and/or vegetable composition or bouquet garni. The plants are fruits, herbs, medicinal plants, tea, vegetables and/or spices. The invention further relates to a method for producing said compositions or infusion product, its use for making a (tea) beverage, and a (tea) beverage so obtained. Further, the present invention relates to a fiber-web, preferably a tea bag, made from said fruits, herbs, medicinal plants, tea, vegetable and/or spices.
Another patent KR102262212B1 relates to infusion products for the manufacture of beverages, and more particularly to plant-based compositions for the manufacture of beverages, and herbal and/or vegetable compositions or bouquet garni. The plants are fruits, herbs, medicinal plants, tea, vegetables and/or spices. The present invention also relates to a process for preparing said composition or infusion product, to its use in the manufacture of a (tea) beverage, and to the (tea) beverage thus obtained. The invention also relates to a fibrous web, preferably a tea bag made from said fruit, herb, medicinal plant, tea, vegetable and/or spice.
Another patent CN102578331B discloses plant herbal tea concentrated solution, prepared from the following raw materials: lophatherum gracile, lysimachia nummularia, microcos paniculata, liquorice, selfheal, plumeria rubra, chrysanthemum morifolium ramat, honeysuckle, Indonesia grass jelly, domestic grass jelly and keemun black tea. The preparation method comprises the steps of sorting, mincing, poaching and leaching, filtering, vacuum concentrating, standardizing, sterilizing, sterile filling and finally obtaining the product, wherein soluble solid state material content in the concentrated solution is 17%. The concentrated solution can be used for producing herbal tea, and only sugar and water are required to be added in proportion when the concentrated solution is used.
Another patent US20170312330A1 relates to a method of increasing fertility of a male subject, wherein the male subject suffers from reduced fertility resulting from a medication, wherein the medication inhibits sperm cell production by inhibiting spermatogenesis in a testis of the male subject, and wherein the method comprises administering to the male subject an effective amount of an extract of Costus speciosus in combination with the medication to prevent, and/or reduce the inhibition of sperm cell production by the medication to increase the fertility of the male subject.
Another patent US10195216B1 relates to Costus speciosus root extracts, especially those prepared using methanol or ethanol or those that have been engineered to contain diosgenin epoxides. Methods for treating skin, burn and wound infections using a Costus extract or epoxidated diosgenin component of Costus.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
Main object of the present invention is to develop a mono-herbal tea formulation using only the leaves of Costus speciosus.
Another object of the present invention is to utilize shade/tray drying and stainless-steel grinding for preserving phytochemical integrity.
Another object of the present invention is to analyze the formulated tea powder for bioactive compounds using GC-MS.
Another object of the present invention is to create a caffeine-free, phytochemically rich, and palatable functional beverage.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a novel application of Costus speciosus leaves distinct from traditional rhizome-based products.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts, in a simplified format, that are further described in the detailed description of the invention.
This summary is neither intended to identify key or essential inventive concepts of the invention and nor is it intended for determining the scope of the invention.
To further clarify advantages and features of the present invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which is illustrated in the appended drawings.
The invention provides a novel herbal tea formulation composed entirely of dried and processed Costus speciosus leaves. The product is a caffeine-free infusion that can be consumed on a daily basis. The leaf material is harvested, washed, shade-dried, ground and packaged in sachets.
A scientific validation via GC-MS shows the composition containing pharmacologically bioactive phytochemicals which provide antioxidant, neuroprotective, antimicrobial and detoxifying effects. The single ingredient product is a clean label, standardized method of providing the potential medicinal properties of Costus speciosus in an acceptable and effective format.
Herein enclosed a method to prepare mono-herbal tea formulation comprising the steps of:
selecting healthy, mature leaves from verified herbal farms;
washing the leaves with distilled water;
shade drying or tray drying the leaves at a temperature not exceeding 40°C;
pulverizing the dried leaves into fine powder using stainless steel grinders;
extracting a sample of the powder with methanol and analyzing via Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) to identify bioactive phytocompounds;
packaging 2–2.5 grams of the powder into iodizable tea sachets; and
sealing the sachets in nitrogen-flushed pouches and storing them in cool, dry conditions.
The bioactive phytocompounds identified through GC-MS include at least one of 4H-Pyran-4-one, Guanosine, Pyrovalerone, Oleic Acid, Stearic Acid, or Asperuloside.
The drying process is carried out for 4–5 days in shade or 8–10 hours in a tray dryer at 40–50°C.
The powder is packaged in single-serve sachets designed for infusion in 150–200 ml of hot water at 80–90°C.
The product is free from synthetic additives, caffeine, preservatives, and artificial flavors.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The illustrated embodiments of the subject matter will be understood by reference to the drawings, wherein like parts are designated by like numerals throughout. The following description is intended only by way of example, and simply illustrates certain selected embodiments of devices, systems, and methods that are consistent with the subject matter as claimed herein, wherein:
Fig 1: GC-MS Analysis
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE TABLE
Table 1: GC-MS analysis identified the following major bioactive constituents in the leaves extract.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The detailed description of various exemplary embodiments of the disclosure is described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the embodiments are described herein in such details as to clearly communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of details provided herein is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
It is also to be understood that various arrangements may be devised that, although not explicitly described or shown herein, embody the principles of the present disclosure. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles, aspects, and embodiments of the present disclosure, as well as specific examples, are intended to encompass equivalents thereof.
The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of example embodiments. As used herein, the singular forms “a",” “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes” and/or “including,” when used herein, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components and/or groups thereof.
It should also be noted that in some alternative implementations, the functions/acts noted may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two figures shown in succession may, in fact, be executed concurrently or may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality/acts involved.
In addition, the descriptions of "first", "second", “third”, and the like in the present invention are used for the purpose of description only, and are not to be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of technical features indicated. Thus, features defining "first" and "second" may include at least one of the features, either explicitly or implicitly.
Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which example embodiments belong. It will be further understood that terms, e.g., those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.
In some embodiments of the present invention, a novel mono-herbal tea formulation made exclusively from the leaves of the medicinal plant Costus speciosus.
In some embodiments of the present invention, unlike traditional formulations that utilize the rhizome, this invention explores the underutilized leaves, offering a clean-label, caffeine-free alternative suitable for daily consumption.
In some embodiments of the present invention, the method involves sourcing healthy leaves, followed by washing, shade or tray drying at controlled temperatures, grinding into a fine powder, and packaging in pre-measured sachets.
In some embodiments of the present invention, the formulation is scientifically validated using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), which confirms the presence of pharmacologically active phytochemicals known for antioxidant, antimicrobial, neuroprotective, and detoxifying properties.
In some embodiments of the present invention, the invention provides a standardized, plant-based functional beverage with potential health benefits and broad consumer appeal.
Herein enclosed a method to prepare mono-herbal tea formulation comprising the steps of:
selecting healthy, mature leaves from verified herbal farms;
washing the leaves with distilled water;
shade drying or tray drying the leaves at a temperature not exceeding 40°C;
pulverizing the dried leaves into fine powder using stainless steel grinders;
extracting a sample of the powder with methanol and analyzing via Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) to identify bioactive phytocompounds;
packaging 2–2.5 grams of the powder into iodizable tea sachets; and
sealing the sachets in nitrogen-flushed pouches and storing them in cool, dry conditions.
The bioactive phytocompounds identified through GC-MS include at least one of 4H-Pyran-4-one, Guanosine, Pyrovalerone, Oleic Acid, Stearic Acid, or Asperuloside.
The drying process is carried out for 4–5 days in shade or 8–10 hours in a tray dryer at 40–50°C.
The powder is packaged in single-serve sachets designed for infusion in 150–200 ml of hot water at 80–90°C.
The product is free from synthetic additives, caffeine, preservatives, and artificial flavors.
EXAMPLE 1
BEST METHOD
Experimental
• Fresh, mature leaves of Costus speciosus are carefully harvested from healthy plants.
• The harvested leaves are washed thoroughly under running tap water to remove dirt and impurities.
• Cleaned leaves are then rinsed with distilled water to ensure microbiological safety.
• The leaves are shade-dried for 4–5 days or tray-dried in a hot air oven at 40–50°C.
• Once fully dried, the leaves are ground into fine powder using a stainless steel grinder.
• The powder is sieved to obtain uniform particle size and remove coarse fibers.
• A fixed quantity of powder (e.g., 1.5–2 grams) is packed into food-grade tea sachets.
• The sachets are sealed and packed into moisture-proof pouches or cartons.
• The finished product is stored in a cool, dry, and dark place to retain stability.
• A sample of the powder is extracted using ethanol or methanol for GC-MS analysis.
• The extract is analyzed via GC-MS to identify bioactive phytocompounds.
• The identified compounds include flavonoids, saponins, terpenes, and phenolic acids.
• The tea is intended for daily use by infusing one sachet in 150–200 ml of hot water.
• The infusion is ready to drink after steeping for 3–5 minutes without added sugar.
• The method provides a caffeine-free, phytochemically rich herbal tea formulation.
GC-MS Phytochemical Profile and Bioactivity Summary
Table 1. GC-MS analysis identified the following major bioactive constituents in the leaves extract:
RT (min) Compound Name Formula CAS No. Activity
12.67 4H-Pyran-4-one C6H8O4 28564-83-2 Antioxidant, antimicrobial
13.57 3-Cyclohexen-1-ol C7H12O 33061-16-4 Anti-inflammatory
17.14 Pyrovalerone C16H23NO 3563-49-3 Neuro-stimulant
19.17 2-Propyl-tetrahydropyran-3-ol C8H16O2 1000194-46-0 Cognitive modulator
22.01 Thiophene, 2-propyl C7H10S 1551-27-5 Antimicrobial
27.69 Guanosine C10H13N5O5 118-00-3 Memory enhancer, brain health
42.54 Oleic Acid C18H34O2 112-80-1 Anti-inflammatory, heart health
44.33 Stearic Acid C21H44O2Si 18748-91-9 Emulsifying agent, skin health
54.89 Asperuloside (4TMS) C30H54O11Si4
1000503-21-3 Anti-cancer, detoxification

The GC-MS analysis confirms that Costus speciosus leaves contain a variety of pharmacologically significant bioactive compounds. These constituents support:
• Systemic rejuvenation (via antioxidants like 4H-Pyran-4-one)
• Immune regulation and antimicrobial protection (via Thiophene and Oleic Acid)
• Gut and heart health (via Stearic Acid and Oleic Acid)
• Cognitive enhancement and brain health (via Guanosine, Pyrovalerone, and related compounds)
• Detoxification and cancer prevention (via Asperuloside)
These compounds contribute to support systemic rejuvenation, immune regulation, gut health, and cognitive performance.
Industrial Applications
• Nutraceutical & Wellness Industry: Represents a science-based herbal product for wellness support routine.
• Ayurvedic Herbal Sector: Follower of traditional medicine formats.
• Clinical and/or Hospital: Suitable for supporting metabolic and recovery from illness.
• Export: Suitable for herbal tea markets U.S., EU and Middle East.
• Retail Health & Beverage: Can be marketed as a clean label functional tea.

, Claims:We Claim:
1. A method to prepare mono-herbal tea formulation comprising the steps of:
(a) selecting healthy, mature leaves from verified herbal farms;
(b) washing the leaves with distilled water;
(c) shade drying or tray drying the leaves at a temperature not exceeding 40°C;
(d) pulverizing the dried leaves into fine powder using stainless steel grinders;
(e) extracting a sample of the powder with methanol and analyzing via Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) to identify bioactive phytocompounds;
(f) packaging 2–2.5 grams of the powder into iodizable tea sachets; and
(g) sealing the sachets in nitrogen-flushed pouches and storing them in cool, dry conditions.
2. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the bioactive phytocompounds identified through GC-MS include at least one of 4H-Pyran-4-one, Guanosine, Pyrovalerone, Oleic Acid, Stearic Acid, or Asperuloside.
3. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the drying process is carried out for 4–5 days in shade or 8–10 hours in a tray dryer at 40–50°C.
4. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the powder is packaged in single-serve sachets designed for infusion in 150–200 ml of hot water at 80–90°C.
5. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the product is free from synthetic additives, caffeine, preservatives, and artificial flavors.